Residents of the Rimrocks : by Mark Reilly
As the days grow shorter and the east winds begin to blow, Mother Nature is
signaling the beginning of a fall ritual. Big game, waterfowl or upland birds it makes no
difference to me, but if you were to ask me what one of my most rewarding fall pursuit
is, I would have to say “chasing” chukar. I make a point to say chasing chukar because
for the most part that is what a day in the field consists of. It makes no difference if you
are hunting with or without a dog because these birds can give the most experienced
canines and humans fits.
For me, the rewards of chukar hunting do not come from bagging a limit of birds but
rather from the beautiful country in which the pursuit takes place. Chukar prefer the
rimrocks high above the great rivers of the Northwest: The Snake, Deschutes, Grande
Ronde, John Day and Clearwater. From the chukars’ home, the hunter is afforded some
of the most spectacular landscapes in the entire Northwest. These panoramic views do
not come without sacrifice however, because the hunt often times exacts an incredible
toll on both hunter and dog alike. With a combination of steep terrain, talus slopes and
sheer cliffs, I often feel like a cruel joke is being played out at my expense.
Hunting chukar demands that you are physically fit
because of the steep terrain and poor footing. Strong legs,
healthy lungs and a quality pair of boots are essential. I
can’t stress enough the importance of a preseason training
program and good quality equipment. You will need boots
that give you a stable platform and clothing that protects
you from the harsh terrain. For that reason I always reach
for my Danner boots. They are the best and most reliable
footwear on the market today. When choosing your vest
make sure your vest has enough room for a small first aid
kit and plenty of water. Because of the steep terrain and
loose footing it is not uncommon to take a tumble or two
during a days hunt. Chukar country for the most part is
very arid so take that into consideration when packing
water for yourself and your best friend.
The choice of a gun for this hunt is very subjective, rivaled only by ones choice of
a dog. Personally, I reach into the safe and pull out my Beretta twenty gauge over and
under. Because of its light weight and quick pointing characteristics, I am able to carry it
comfortably over the steep terrain and get a quick bead on the flushing birds as they
scream down the hillside. As the season wears on it is wise to start carrying a 12 gauge
for those longer shots at those wild flushing birds.
Finally, for those of you out there who have never had the pleasure of
experiencing a covey of chukar take to the air, make a point to get out there this season.
But consider yourself fore warned because the covey rise of a chukar is intoxicating and
tends to take over your every thought. Soon you will find yourself passing on other
hunting trips for the opportunity to chase one of the most exciting upland birds to grace
the Northwest. Enjoy the scenery and the best of luck hitting these masked runners of
the rimrock.
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